I think Tolkien was influenced by Anglo-Saxon beacons rather than classical ones. There are various references to them being used to organise local defence in the early eleventh century.
The practicalities of such beacon chains though. In the LOTR film, they are all on mountain tops. Who exactly is living up there in the snows, ready to set light to a pile of oil-soaked wood? It must have been something of a punishment detail!
I think Tolkien was influenced by Anglo-Saxon beacons rather than classical ones. There are various references to them being used to organise local defence in the early eleventh century.
Thanks for posting. I liked the links from ancient literature to Tolkien.. and i too love that scene. 🔥
A powerful and evocative connection
The practicalities of such beacon chains though. In the LOTR film, they are all on mountain tops. Who exactly is living up there in the snows, ready to set light to a pile of oil-soaked wood? It must have been something of a punishment detail!